Shape International

Stakeholders call for accessible education, qualified sign-language interpreters and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities ; NHRC urges more qualified interpreters as GADHOH calls for greater inclusion of deaf and hard-of-hearing persons The Gambia Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (GADHOH) has called for stronger action to ensure the full inclusion and participation of deaf and hard-of-hearing persons in all aspects of Gambian society. The call was made on 26 September 2026 during a commemoration of the International Day of Deaf and Sign Languages, organised by GADHOH and attended by representatives of organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), government institutions, schools, civil society organisations, development partners, the media and members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. https://youtu.be/8LFXGNXpxis The programme began with a march-past from Iceman Junction to the GADHOH Headquarters in Kanifing, bringing together members...

NUDY PRESS STATEMENT In Observance of International Week of Deaf People 2026 Theme: "Declaring Deaf People's Human Rights" The National Union of Disabled Youth (NUDY) joins GADHOH, the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities (NACPWD) and over 70 million Deaf people worldwide in commemorating the International Week of Deaf People 2026, culminating in the International Day of Sign Languages observed on 23rd September. This year's theme, "Declaring Deaf People's Human Rights," is powerful and timely. It comes as we mark 20 years of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). It reminds us that Sign Language Rights are Human Rights. Our Message is Clear: To declare Deaf people's human rights is to affirm that: - Access to Gambian Sign Language is a right, not a privilege; - Access to inclusive and quality education in sign language for Deaf children and you...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NACPWD & GFD Mourn the Passing of Dr Karamo N.M. Sonko - Steadfast Champion of the Disability Community in The Gambia Banjul, The Gambia — 8 June 2026 — The National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities (NACPWD) and the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Dr Karamo N.M. Sonko in London. Dr Sonko was a steadfast partner and tireless champion of the disability community in The Gambia. His commitment, generosity and advocacy uplifted many people with disabilities and strengthened our collective voice. His loss leaves a significant void in the ongoing struggle for inclusion and dignity. The National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities and the Gambia Federation of the Disabled extend heartfelt condolences to Dr Sonko’s family, friends, and the people of Sintate, Foni District. They join the community in prayer and in honouring his memory as he was laid to rest in his home villa...

Suspensions and closures of international media outlets are increasingly being used to silence critical reporting and restrict access to information across the Sahel. Since 2022, several international media organisations, including Radio France Internationale, France 24 and Voice of America, have suffered suspensions or outright broadcasting bans in a climate of restrictions on local and international media alike and tighter state control over information in the region. In this edition, we examine the crackdown on international media across the region, with a focus on the latest suspensions imposed by Nigerien authorities. On 8 May 2026, Niger’s media regulator, the National Communications Observatory (ONC) suspended nine international French-language media outlets, accusing them of disseminating content deemed capable of undermining public order and national stability. The affected outlets include France 24, Radio France Internationale, Agence France-Presse, TV5 Monde, as well...

This column is dedicated to discussing disability rights, inclusion, and equal opportunities in The Gambia. It aims to simplify laws, policies, and everyday issues affecting persons with disabilities, so that everyone can understand their rights and responsibilities in clear and simple English. The focus is on awareness, inclusion, and practical understanding of how laws work in real life. The protection of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in The Gambia is not only a moral responsibility but also a legal requirement backed by law. The Persons with Disabilities Act 2021 provides a strong framework for inclusion, equality, and non-discrimination. A key part of this law is Section 70, which outlines offences and penalties for anyone who violates the rights of persons with disabilities. Section 70 is important because it ensures accountability. It places responsibility on individuals, institutions, and public authorities to respect the rights of persons with disabilitie...

Meet Sainabou Colley, a 51-year-old Gambian woman whose life has been brought to a standstill by a severe spinal condition. For years, she endured persistent back pain, but her situation has now worsened to the point where she can no longer walk and relies on a wheelchair. Medical specialists have confirmed that Sainabou urgently needs advanced spinal surgery abroad—specifically in India—to survive and regain her mobility. Without this intervention, her condition may continue to deteriorate. The estimated cost for her treatment—including surgery, travel, and post-operative care—exceeds **$10,000**, an amount far beyond her means. This is where your support can make a life-changing difference. **How you can help:** * 💰 Donate any amount you can afford * 🔁 Share this appeal widely * 🤝 Connect her with individuals or organisations willing to support 📞 **Contact (WhatsApp): +220 7526403** Every contribution, no matter how small, brings Sainabou one step closer to standing an...